RCS Dad Style: Dad Bags

I’m all-in on being a dad.  We’re a few weeks in, and while it’s been a whirlwind, it hasn’t been out of control.  Maybe it’s because I have a great partner, and we have a good attitude about everything.  Or it could be that #HJS is awesome.  Whatever it is, I’ll take it.  You all know this blog is a reflection of what’s going on in my world, so get ready for a few dad-themed posts.

There is one thing that is 100% yours- the dad bag.  Don’t get me wrong, mom will have her own mom bag, but I can almost guarantee that it’s something you won’t want to carry on your shoulder.  You will absolutely need some sort of vessel to carry everything required to manage and maintain a happy and healthy baby.  And it’s a lot to carry around.

Now, I would never just shop for a ‘diaper bag’.  No way.  Too limiting.  I’d rather get something and convert (like I did with my camera bag).  To get started, you need to get an insert.  This $16 option is what I went with, and it works like a champ:

This insert comes in a couple sizes so it will work with almost any bag.  And remember – the more pockets, the better.

Now – for the bag, I prefer something that has a zipper.  I like the bag to close in case it tips over.  I don’t want everything to spill everywhere.  I also want something that looks NOTHING like a diaper bag.  Lastly, I want it to be something that is functional, and can be well used after it’s retired as a diaper bag.  So here we go, here are my picks for RCS-approved dad bags:

From top left:

1. Filson Zip Tote: This is what I’m using right now.  I got this one for a STEAL at an East Dane sale, and added HJS’s initials in red.  We did navy blue for our boy, but there’s otter green or tan for the little girls.  I love it, and I know he’ll love it when I give it to him.
2. LL Bean Insulated Waxed Canvas Tote:  A really cool look, and a conducive shape for a diaper bag.  Don’t worry that it’s insulated, although it will give it a little more padding.  Very outdoorsy, and a great price point.
3. Shinola Nylon Travel Tote:  For the dapper dad; it has a high-end travel bag look instead of a dad bag.  Still, it will serve the purpose.  Plenty of room, and a really slick look.
4. Andover Trask Harper Canvas Tool Tote:  A GREAT option for the dad who owns the daycare drop-off and pick-up.  This bag is like a toolbox for kid stuff.  Lots of pockets and a low profile.  There’s a blue option for the boys, and a green (pine) option for the girls.  …and it’s made in Atlanta.
5. Orvis Convertible Tote / Backpack:  A cool bag for the dad who loves down vests.  A really cool backpack and tote hybrid that is waterproof and a great shape.  There is no way that this bag gets confused as a diaper bag, and you can use it on fly fishing trips after Junior is out of diapers.
6. Hudson Sutler Hatteras Daypack:  For the backpack guy…get over the Jansport you carried in high school and upgrade to the Daypack from Hudson Sutler.  The adult version of the basic backpack.  Hands-free, right?
7. Jack Spade Camo Commuter Tote Bag:  While I’m a huge fan of a zipper, some guys aren’t.  Jack Spade does GREAT work with their bags, and their Commuter Tote is top of the heap.  The camo design is just right – not too
8. Ball and Buck ‘The Blind Bag’: This bag gets the award for ‘Best Dad Bag’ from RCS.  Great style, great function, and it can be retired to a hunting tote once your offspring grown out of it.  It’s all about multi-function.

Hope this helps, folks.